COVID-19 in Baghdad: Examining Knowledge, Attitude and Practice Through a Medical Lens

Abstract

Background: The COVID-19 epidemic has had a devastating influence on health, even in the Iraqi metropolis of Baghdad. Aim: From the standpoint of healthcare professionals, assess the population's knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) on COVID-19 in Baghdad. Methods: For the cross-sectional study design, a sample size of 384 participants was chosen using a multi-stage cluster sampling process. The data were gathered using a standardized questionnaire that had three sections: knowledge, attitudes, and practices. Results: The results demonstrated that most participants had a high level of COVID-19 knowledge, with a mean knowledge score of 77.2%. The participants had favorable views toward COVID-19 prevention initiatives, scoring a mean attitude score of 80.4%. The individuals demonstrated a high level of adherence to preventive actions, with a mean practice score of 88.3%. A positive correlation between participant KAP scores and medical education and training was also found by the study. Conclusion: This study emphasizes the significance of healthcare professionals in public education and support of preventive actions to halt the development of infectious diseases like COVID-19. To curb the spread of COVID-19, the healthcare system and the general public must collaborate. Medical experts must educate the public about the condition.